PICOT Question Examples And 100 Useful PICO Questions For Nursing Research

In all nursing levels (BSN, MSN, or DNP), you must begin your research queries using an evidence-based practice framework developed from a well-constructed PICOT question. Here we’ll show you how to formulate a PICO Question and provide some elaborative PICOT Question Examples for DNP, NP, and BSN Students.

Here's What You'll Learn

What is a PICOT Question for Nursing Research

The word PICOT is a mnemonic derived from the elements of a clinical research question – patient, intervention, comparison, outcome, and (sometimes) time.

A PICOT question in nursing is a structured approach to formulating a clinical research question. It’s an essential tool in evidence-based practice and nursing research. Here’s a comprehensive explanation:

Definition: PICOT is an acronym that stands for:

P: Patient, Population, or Problem
I: Intervention or Issue of interest
C: Comparison intervention or group
O: Outcome you would like to measure or achieve
T: Time frame of the intervention (sometimes included)

Picot Question Examples and PICOT Question for Nursing Research and What is a PICOT Question — What is a PICOT Question

Each element helps refine the question, ensuring it’s specific and relevant to clinical practice. For instance, a PICOT question might ask: “In adult patients with type 2 diabetes, how does a daily walking regimen compared to standard care affect HbA1c levels over 6 months?”

The PICOT process begins with a case scenario, and the question is phrased to elicit an answer. This crucial step helps in developing a careful and thoughtful question that makes the search for evidence easier.

By using the PICOT process, healthcare professionals can streamline their research and identify the most appropriate type of study to answer their questions.

It’s worth noting the distinction between PICO and PICOT. PICO (Patient/Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) is the original format, widely used in evidence-based practice. PICOT adds the element of Time, which can be crucial in certain research questions. The addition of the time element can help in assessing the duration of an intervention’s effect or in specifying a timeframe for outcome measurement.

Whether using PICO or PICOT depends on the nature of the research question. Some questions naturally include a time element, while for others, it may not be relevant. Both formats serve the same fundamental purpose: to create well-defined, answerable questions that guide effective research and support evidence-based nursing practice.

How to Format a PICOT question for Nursing Research

The PICOT process generally begins with a vague clinical query. Each element of the process helps develop a well-structured question. Once established, researchers can search for evidence that will help answer the inquiry.

The elements of a PICOT question are crucial in formulating a specific and precise inquiry. To ensure clarity and effectiveness, it is essential to consider the following components:

P (Patient, population, or problem): This element focuses on identifying the specific patient, population, or problem under investigation. By clearly defining the target group, including relevant demographics and features, the researcher can narrow down the scope of the inquiry.
I (Intervention): The intervention refers to the action or treatment being considered. It is vital to outline the specific intervention, such as diagnostic tests, therapies, or nursing interventions, to accurately address the research question.
C (Comparison or control): Considering alternative strategies or controls against which the intervention will be compared is a critical aspect of a PICOT question. By including this element, researchers can assess the effectiveness of different approaches and determine the best course of action.
O (Outcome or objective): The desired or expected outcome or objective of the intervention should be clearly defined. By identifying the intended result, researchers can focus on measuring the impact of the intervention accurately.
T (Time frame): The timeframe allocated for implementing the intervention is another essential element of a PICOT question. Researchers need to specify the duration within which the desired outcome is expected to be achieved, allowing for a more precise assessment of the intervention’s effectiveness.

By diligently considering each component of the PICOT question, researchers can develop a carefully constructed query that guides their search for evidence.

The meticulousness involved in the formulation process ensures that the inquiry is specific, precise, and tailored to the research objectives. This approach, endorsed by the University of Oxford’s Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, enriches the research process and facilitates the identification of relevant and reliable evidence to support nursing practice.

Example: PICO(T) Question and Search Strategy

Does the bariatric adolescent patient undergoing gastric bypass have better continuity of care perioperatively and postoperatively when the nurse is a primary member of the multidisciplinary team versus when the nurse is a secondary member whose only role is in providing perioperative care and has no specialized training?

Read this Detailed Guide on MSN Capstone Project Ideas – 2024

PICO and PICOT Question Examples for Nursing

30 Nursing PICO Questions Examples

In elderly patients with hypertension (P), how does a Mediterranean diet (I) compared to a low-fat diet (C) affect blood pressure levels (O)?
For postoperative patients (P), is music therapy (I) more effective than standard care (C) in reducing anxiety levels (O)?
In pediatric patients with asthma (P), does the use of spacers with inhalers (I) compared to inhalers alone (C) improve medication delivery and symptom control (O)?
For ICU patients (P), does early mobilization (I) versus standard care (C) reduce the length of hospital stay (O)?
In diabetic patients (P), how does continuous glucose monitoring (I) compared to traditional finger-prick testing (C) affect HbA1c levels (O)?
For patients with chronic pain (P), is acupuncture (I) more effective than pharmacological treatment (C) in pain management (O)?
In pregnant women (P), does prenatal yoga (I) compared to standard prenatal exercise (C) reduce the risk of gestational diabetes (O)?
For patients with COPD (P), does pulmonary rehabilitation (I) versus medication alone (C) improve quality of life (O)?
In stroke patients (P), is constraint-induced movement therapy (I) more effective than conventional physiotherapy (C) in improving upper limb function (O)?
For patients with depression (P), does cognitive-behavioral therapy (I) compared to medication (C) lead to better long-term outcomes (O)?
In surgical patients (P), does pre-operative fasting (I) versus carbohydrate loading (C) affect post-operative recovery time (O)?
For patients with heart failure (P), does telemonitoring (I) compared to regular clinic visits (C) reduce hospital readmissions (O)?
In patients with sleep apnea (P), is CPAP therapy (I) more effective than lifestyle modifications (C) in improving sleep quality (O)?
For cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy (P), does ginger supplementation (I) versus placebo (C) reduce nausea and vomiting (O)?
In elderly patients (P), does a tailored exercise program (I) compared to no intervention (C) reduce the risk of falls (O)?
For patients with urinary incontinence (P), are pelvic floor exercises (I) more effective than medication (C) in reducing symptoms (O)?
In ICU patients on mechanical ventilation (P), does daily sedation interruption (I) versus continuous sedation (C) shorten ventilator days (O)?
For patients with chronic wounds (P), is negative pressure wound therapy (I) more effective than standard dressings (C) in promoting wound healing (O)?
In patients with osteoarthritis (P), does aquatic therapy (I) compared to land-based exercise (C) improve joint mobility and pain relief (O)?
For patients with eating disorders (P), is family-based therapy (I) more effective than individual therapy (C) in achieving weight restoration (O)?
In patients with coronary artery disease (P), does a plant-based diet (I) compared to a standard cardiac diet (C) reduce the risk of cardiac events (O)?
For patients with fibromyalgia (P), is tai chi (I) more effective than aerobic exercise (C) in managing pain and improving quality of life (O)?
In premature infants (P), does kangaroo care (I) compared to standard incubator care (C) improve weight gain and bonding (O)?
For patients with dementia (P), does reminiscence therapy (I) versus standard care (C) improve cognitive function and mood (O)?
In patients with chronic kidney disease (P), does a low-protein diet (I) compared to a standard diet (C) slow the progression of renal failure (O)?
For patients with migraine (P), is botulinum toxin injection (I) more effective than oral preventive medication (C) in reducing headache frequency (O)?
In patients with burns (P), does early excision and grafting (I) compared to conservative management (C) improve healing time and outcomes (O)?
For patients with PTSD (P), is EMDR therapy (I) more effective than cognitive processing therapy (C) in reducing symptom severity (O)?
In patients with venous leg ulcers (P), does compression therapy (I) compared to standard wound care (C) accelerate healing (O)?
For patients with substance use disorders (P), is motivational interviewing (I) more effective than traditional counseling (C) in maintaining abstinence (O)?

20 Nursing PICOT Questions

In adult patients with type 2 diabetes (P), how does a low-carbohydrate diet (I) compared to a low-fat diet (C) affect HbA1c levels (O) over a 6-month period (T)?
For postpartum women (P), does early skin-to-skin contact (I) compared to standard care (C) improve breastfeeding rates (O) in the first 3 months after birth (T)?
In elderly patients with dementia (P), how does aromatherapy (I) compared to no intervention (C) affect agitation levels (O) over a 4-week period (T)?
For adult patients undergoing colorectal surgery (P), does the implementation of an ERAS protocol (I) versus standard care (C) reduce length of hospital stay (O) within the first 30 days post-surgery (T)?
In pediatric patients with asthma (P), how does a school-based education program (I) compared to standard clinic education (C) affect emergency department visits (O) over one academic year (T)?
For adult patients with chronic low back pain (P), is yoga therapy (I) more effective than physical therapy (C) in reducing pain intensity (O) after 12 weeks of intervention (T)?
In ICU patients on mechanical ventilation (P), how does early mobilization (I) compared to standard care (C) affect the duration of mechanical ventilation (O) during the ICU stay (T)?
For pregnant women with gestational diabetes (P), does a Mediterranean diet (I) compared to a standard diabetic diet (C) affect the need for insulin therapy (O) throughout pregnancy (T)?
In adult patients with depression (P), how does bright light therapy (I) compared to antidepressant medication (C) affect depressive symptoms (O) over a 6-week treatment period (T)?
For patients undergoing cardiac surgery (P), does preoperative breathing exercises (I) compared to no intervention (C) reduce the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications (O) within the first 7 days after surgery (T)?
In adult patients with insomnia (P), how does cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) (I) compared to sleep medication (C) affect sleep quality (O) over a 3-month period (T)?
For oncology patients receiving chemotherapy (P), does the use of cryotherapy gloves and socks (I) compared to standard care (C) reduce the incidence of peripheral neuropathy (O) during the first 6 cycles of treatment (T)?
In adult patients with COPD (P), how does a home-based pulmonary rehabilitation program (I) compared to hospital-based rehabilitation (C) affect exercise capacity (O) after 12 weeks of intervention (T)?
For adult patients with obesity (P), does intermittent fasting (I) compared to calorie restriction (C) affect weight loss (O) over a 6-month period (T)?
In adult patients with heart failure (P), how does a nurse-led telephone follow-up (I) compared to usual care (C) affect hospital readmission rates (O) within 30 days of discharge (T)?
For adult patients with chronic wounds (P), does the use of honey-based dressings (I) compared to silver-based dressings (C) affect wound healing time (O) over an 8-week period (T)?
In adult patients with hypertension (P), how does a DASH diet intervention (I) compared to standard dietary advice (C) affect blood pressure levels (O) after 3 months (T)?
For adult patients undergoing elective surgery (P), does prehabilitation (I) compared to standard preoperative care (C) affect postoperative complications (O) within the first 30 days after surgery (T)?
In adult patients with osteoarthritis (P), how does a high-intensity interval training program (I) compared to low-intensity continuous exercise (C) affect pain and function (O) over a 12-week intervention period (T)?
For adult patients with anxiety disorders (P), does mindfulness-based stress reduction (I) compared to pharmacological treatment (C) affect anxiety symptoms (O) after 8 weeks of intervention (T)?

30 PICOT Questions Examples

In adult patients with type 2 diabetes (P), how does a plant-based diet (I) compared to a standard diabetic diet (C) affect HbA1c levels (O) over a 6-month period (T)?
For postoperative patients (P), does early ambulation (I) versus bed rest (C) reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (O) within the first week after surgery (T)?
In children with ADHD (P), how does a mindfulness-based intervention (I) compared to standard behavioral therapy (C) affect attention span and hyperactivity (O) over a 12-week period (T)?
For adults with chronic insomnia (P), is cognitive behavioral therapy (I) more effective than sleep medication (C) in improving sleep quality (O) after 8 weeks of treatment (T)?
In elderly patients with dementia (P), how does music therapy (I) compared to standard care (C) affect agitation levels (O) over a 4-week intervention period (T)?
For pregnant women with morning sickness (P), does acupressure wristbands (I) versus placebo bands (C) reduce the frequency of nausea and vomiting (O) during the first trimester (T)?
In adult patients with depression (P), how does exercise therapy (I) compared to antidepressant medication (C) affect depressive symptoms (O) over a 12-week period (T)?
For patients with chronic low back pain (P), is yoga therapy (I) more effective than physical therapy (C) in reducing pain intensity (O) after 3 months of intervention (T)?
In adult patients with hypertension (P), how does a Mediterranean diet (I) compared to a low-fat diet (C) affect blood pressure levels (O) over a 6-month period (T)?
For ICU patients on mechanical ventilation (P), does daily interruption of sedation (I) versus continuous sedation (C) reduce the duration of mechanical ventilation (O) during the ICU stay (T)?
In children with asthma (P), how does a school-based education program (I) compared to standard clinic education (C) affect emergency department visits (O) over one academic year (T)?
For adult patients undergoing chemotherapy (P), does the use of ginger supplements (I) versus placebo (C) reduce the incidence of nausea and vomiting (O) during the first 5 days of each chemotherapy cycle (T)?
In adult patients with obesity (P), how does intermittent fasting (I) compared to calorie restriction (C) affect weight loss (O) over a 12-week period (T)?
For patients with chronic wounds (P), is negative pressure wound therapy (I) more effective than standard dressings (C) in promoting wound healing (O) over an 8-week period (T)?
In adult patients with COPD (P), how does a home-based pulmonary rehabilitation program (I) compared to outpatient rehabilitation (C) affect exercise capacity (O) after 12 weeks of intervention (T)?
For adult patients with fibromyalgia (P), does acupuncture (I) versus sham acupuncture (C) reduce pain intensity (O) over a 6-week treatment period (T)?
In postpartum women (P), how does early skin-to-skin contact (I) compared to standard care (C) affect breastfeeding rates (O) in the first 6 weeks after birth (T)?
For adult patients with osteoarthritis (P), is aquatic therapy (I) more effective than land-based exercise (C) in improving joint mobility and pain relief (O) after 8 weeks of intervention (T)?
In adult patients with heart failure (P), how does a nurse-led home visit program (I) compared to telephone follow-up (C) affect hospital readmission rates (O) within 30 days of discharge (T)?
For adult patients with generalized anxiety disorder (P), does mindfulness-based stress reduction (I) versus cognitive-behavioral therapy (C) reduce anxiety symptoms (O) over a 12-week intervention period (T)?
In adult patients with sleep apnea (P), how does positional therapy (I) compared to CPAP (C) affect the apnea-hypopnea index (O) over a 4-week period (T)?
For patients undergoing total knee replacement (P), does prehabilitation (I) versus standard preoperative care (C) improve functional outcomes (O) 3 months post-surgery (T)?
In adult patients with irritable bowel syndrome (P), how does a low FODMAP diet (I) compared to a standard IBS diet (C) affect symptom severity (O) over a 6-week period (T)?
For adult patients with major depressive disorder (P), is transcranial magnetic stimulation (I) more effective than antidepressant medication (C) in achieving remission (O) after 6 weeks of treatment (T)?
In adult patients with chronic migraine (P), how does botulinum toxin injections (I) compared to oral preventive medication (C) affect the frequency of migraine days (O) over a 3-month period (T)?
For adult patients with peripheral arterial disease (P), does a supervised exercise program (I) versus home-based exercise (C) improve walking distance (O) after 12 weeks of intervention (T)?
In adult patients with plantar fasciitis (P), how does extracorporeal shock wave therapy (I) compared to corticosteroid injections (C) affect pain levels (O) over a 3-month period (T)?
For adult patients with atrial fibrillation (P), does yoga therapy (I) versus standard medical care (C) affect the frequency of symptomatic episodes (O) over a 6-month period (T)?
In adult patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (P), how does a Mediterranean diet (I) compared to a low-fat diet (C) affect liver enzyme levels (O) over a 6-month period (T)?
For adult patients with chronic kidney disease (P), does a low-protein diet (I) versus a standard renal diet (C) slow the progression of renal failure (O) over a 12-month period (T)?

30 PICO Questions for Nursing Examples

In adult patients with type 2 diabetes (P), how does a Mediterranean diet (I) compared to a standard diabetic diet (C) affect HbA1c levels (O)?
For postoperative patients (P), is music therapy (I) more effective than standard care (C) in reducing anxiety levels (O)?
In pediatric patients with asthma (P), does the use of spacers with inhalers (I) compared to inhalers alone (C) improve medication delivery and symptom control (O)?
For ICU patients (P), does early mobilization (I) versus standard care (C) reduce the length of hospital stay (O)?
In diabetic patients (P), how does continuous glucose monitoring (I) compared to traditional finger-prick testing (C) affect HbA1c levels (O)?
For patients with chronic pain (P), is acupuncture (I) more effective than pharmacological treatment (C) in pain management (O)?
In pregnant women (P), does prenatal yoga (I) compared to standard prenatal exercise (C) reduce the risk of gestational diabetes (O)?
For patients with COPD (P), does pulmonary rehabilitation (I) versus medication alone (C) improve quality of life (O)?
In stroke patients (P), is constraint-induced movement therapy (I) more effective than conventional physiotherapy (C) in improving upper limb function (O)?
For patients with depression (P), does cognitive-behavioral therapy (I) compared to medication (C) lead to better long-term outcomes (O)?
In surgical patients (P), does pre-operative fasting (I) versus carbohydrate loading (C) affect post-operative recovery time (O)?
For patients with heart failure (P), does telemonitoring (I) compared to regular clinic visits (C) reduce hospital readmissions (O)?
In patients with sleep apnea (P), is CPAP therapy (I) more effective than lifestyle modifications (C) in improving sleep quality (O)?
For cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy (P), does ginger supplementation (I) versus placebo (C) reduce nausea and vomiting (O)?
In elderly patients (P), does a tailored exercise program (I) compared to no intervention (C) reduce the risk of falls (O)?
For patients with urinary incontinence (P), are pelvic floor exercises (I) more effective than medication (C) in reducing symptoms (O)?
In ICU patients on mechanical ventilation (P), does daily sedation interruption (I) versus continuous sedation (C) shorten ventilator days (O)?
For patients with chronic wounds (P), is negative pressure wound therapy (I) more effective than standard dressings (C) in promoting wound healing (O)?
In patients with osteoarthritis (P), does aquatic therapy (I) compared to land-based exercise (C) improve joint mobility and pain relief (O)?
For patients with eating disorders (P), is family-based therapy (I) more effective than individual therapy (C) in achieving weight restoration (O)?
In patients with coronary artery disease (P), does a plant-based diet (I) compared to a standard cardiac diet (C) reduce the risk of cardiac events (O)?
For patients with fibromyalgia (P), is tai chi (I) more effective than aerobic exercise (C) in managing pain and improving quality of life (O)?
In premature infants (P), does kangaroo care (I) compared to standard incubator care (C) improve weight gain and bonding (O)?
For patients with dementia (P), does reminiscence therapy (I) versus standard care (C) improve cognitive function and mood (O)?
In patients with chronic kidney disease (P), does a low-protein diet (I) compared to a standard diet (C) slow the progression of renal failure (O)?
For patients with migraine (P), is botulinum toxin injection (I) more effective than oral preventive medication (C) in reducing headache frequency (O)?
In patients with burns (P), does early excision and grafting (I) compared to conservative management (C) improve healing time and outcomes (O)?
For patients with PTSD (P), is EMDR therapy (I) more effective than cognitive processing therapy (C) in reducing symptom severity (O)?
In patients with venous leg ulcers (P), does compression therapy (I) compared to standard wound care (C) accelerate healing (O)?

Cardiac PICO Question Examples

In patients with acute myocardial infarction (P), does early mobilization (I) compared to prolonged bed rest (C) reduce the length of hospital stay (O)?
For patients with heart failure (P), is a low-sodium diet (I) more effective than fluid restriction (C) in reducing hospital readmissions (O)?
In patients with atrial fibrillation (P), does catheter ablation (I) compared to antiarrhythmic drugs (C) improve quality of life (O)?
For patients undergoing cardiac surgery (P), does preoperative statin therapy (I) versus standard care (C) reduce the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation (O)?
In patients with stable angina (P), is a Mediterranean diet (I) more effective than a low-fat diet (C) in reducing cardiovascular events (O)?

Labor and Delivery PICO Question Examples

In nulliparous women (P), does walking during early labor (I) compared to bed rest (C) shorten the duration of active labor (O)?
For women undergoing induction of labor (P), is the use of a Foley catheter (I) more effective than prostaglandin gel (C) in achieving successful vaginal delivery (O)?
In women with gestational diabetes (P), does continuous glucose monitoring (I) compared to intermittent glucose checks (C) improve neonatal outcomes (O)?
For women with preeclampsia (P), is magnesium sulfate (I) more effective than other anticonvulsants (C) in preventing eclampsia (O)?
In women with previous cesarean section (P), does a trial of labor (I) compared to elective repeat cesarean (C) affect maternal satisfaction and outcomes (O)?

PICOT Question Examples for Nursing Mental Health

In adult patients with major depressive disorder (P), how does cognitive-behavioral therapy (I) compared to pharmacotherapy (C) affect depressive symptoms (O) over a 12-week period (T)?
For adolescents with anxiety disorders (P), is mindfulness-based stress reduction (I) more effective than cognitive-behavioral therapy (C) in reducing anxiety symptoms (O) after 8 weeks of intervention (T)?
In elderly patients with dementia (P), how does reminiscence therapy (I) compared to standard care (C) affect cognitive function and quality of life (O) over a 6-month period (T)?
For adult patients with bipolar disorder (P), does interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (I) versus medication alone (C) reduce the frequency of manic/depressive episodes (O) over a 1-year period (T)?
In patients with schizophrenia (P), how does cognitive remediation therapy (I) compared to standard care (C) affect cognitive functioning and social skills (O) after 16 weeks of treatment (T)?

Nursing Intervention PICO Question Examples

In patients with pressure ulcers (P), does the use of alternating pressure mattresses (I) compared to standard hospital mattresses (C) accelerate wound healing (O)?
For postoperative patients (P), is early enteral feeding (I) more effective than traditional delayed feeding (C) in reducing the risk of complications (O)?
In patients with urinary tract infections (P), does cranberry juice supplementation (I) compared to water intake (C) reduce the recurrence of infections (O)?
For patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (P), does a nurse-led education program (I) versus standard care (C) improve self-management skills and quality of life (O)?
In patients with diabetes (P), does motivational interviewing (I) compared to standard education (C) improve adherence to self-care behaviors (O)?

10 DNP PICOT Question Examples

In adult patients with type 2 diabetes (P), how does a nurse-led telehealth intervention (I) compared to standard outpatient care (C) affect HbA1c levels (O) over a 6-month period (T)?
For hospitalized elderly patients (P), does the implementation of a fall prevention protocol (I) versus standard care (C) reduce the incidence of falls (O) during the hospital stay (T)?
In primary care settings (P), how does the integration of mental health screening (I) compared to usual care (C) affect the early detection and treatment of depression (O) over a 12-month period (T)?
For patients with chronic heart failure (P), does a nurse-led home-based exercise program (I) versus usual care (C) improve exercise capacity and quality of life (O) after 3 months of intervention (T)?
In rural communities (P), how does the implementation of a mobile health clinic (I) compared to traditional clinic-based care (C) affect access to preventive services (O) over a 1-year period (T)?
For adult patients with hypertension (P), does a nurse-led lifestyle modification program (I) versus medication alone (C) affect blood pressure control (O) over a 6-month period (T)?
In pediatric asthma patients (P), how does a school-based asthma education program (I) compared to standard clinic education (C) affect emergency department visits and hospitalizations (O) over one academic year (T)?
For postpartum women (P), does a nurse-led breastfeeding support intervention (I) versus standard care (C) affect exclusive breastfeeding rates (O) at 3 months postpartum (T)?
In adult patients with obesity (P), how does a nurse-led behavioral weight management program (I) compared to self-directed weight loss (C) affect weight loss and maintenance (O) over a 12-month period (T)?
For patients with chronic pain (P), does the implementation of a nurse-led pain management program (I) versus standard pain management (C) affect pain intensity and quality of life (O) over a 6-month period (T)?

10 Evidence Based Practice PICOT Question Examples

In adult patients with type 2 diabetes (P), how does a low-carbohydrate diet (I) compared to a low-fat diet (C) affect HbA1c levels (O) over a 6-month period (T)?
For hospitalized patients at risk of pressure ulcers (P), does the use of a silicone foam dressing (I) versus standard care (C) reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers (O) during the hospital stay (T)?
In adult patients with chronic low back pain (P), how does yoga therapy (I) compared to physical therapy (C) affect pain intensity and functional ability (O) after 12 weeks of intervention (T)?
For adult patients with insomnia (P), does cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) (I) versus sleep medication (C) improve sleep quality (O) over a 3-month period (T)?
In adult patients with heart failure (P), how does a home-based cardiac rehabilitation program (I) compared to center-based rehabilitation (C) affect exercise capacity and quality of life (O) after 12 weeks of intervention (T)?
For adult patients undergoing colorectal surgery (P), does the implementation of an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol (I) versus standard care (C) reduce length of hospital stay (O) within 30 days post-surgery (T)?
In adult patients with depression (P), how does mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (I) compared to antidepressant medication (C) affect relapse rates (O) over a 1-year follow-up period (T)?
For adult patients with osteoarthritis of the knee (P), does a high-intensity exercise program (I) versus low-intensity exercise (C) improve pain and function (O) after 8 weeks of intervention (T)?
In adult patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (P), how does a self-management education program (I) compared to usual care (C) affect hospital readmission rates (O) over a 6-month period (T)?
For adult patients with venous leg ulcers (P), does the use of compression stockings (I) versus compression bandages (C) affect healing time (O) over a 12-week period (T)?

10 PICOT Question Topics

The effect of telemedicine on diabetes management in rural populations
Impact of nurse-led education programs on medication adherence in elderly patients
Effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for stress reduction in healthcare workers
Comparison of different pain management techniques in postoperative patients
Influence of early mobilization on recovery time in ICU patients
Effects of probiotics on the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea
Impact of family-centered care on outcomes in pediatric oncology patients
Effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia in adults with chronic pain
Comparison of different wound dressing techniques in promoting healing of diabetic foot ulcers
Impact of nutritional interventions on fall risk in elderly nursing home residents

MSN PICOT Questions formulated for different structures

PICO(T) Model & Question Types

Use this table to understand how to ask different types of PICOT questions.

Here's how to format a PICOT Question with PICOT Question Examples and Ideas for BSN, MSN and DNP Nursing Students — Here’s how to format a PICOT Question with PICOT Question Examples and Ideas for BSN, MSN and DNP Nursing Students

Therapy PICOT Question Example, a non-intervention example: What is the duration of recovery (O) for patients with total hip replacement (P) who developed a post-operative infection (I) as opposed to those who did not (C) within the first six weeks of recovery (T)?
Aetiology PICOT Question Examples: Are kids (P) who have obese adoptive parents (I) at Increased risk for obesity (O) compared with kids (P) without obese adoptive parents (C) during the ages of five and 18 (T).
Diagnostic PICOT Question Example: Is a PKU test (I) done on two-week-old infants (P) more accurate in diagnosing inborn errors in metabolism (O) compared with PKU tests done at 24 hours of age (C)? Time is implied in two weeks and 24 hours old.
Meaning PICOT Question Example: (picot question examples nursing) How do pregnant women (P) newly diagnosed with diabetes (I) perceive reporting their blood sugar levels (O) to their healthcare providers during their pregnancy and six weeks postpartum (T)?

PICOT Question Examples for Pediatric Nursing

In children with acute asthma exacerbations (P), how does the use of metered-dose inhalers with spacers (I) compared to nebulizers (C) affect the rate of hospital admissions (O) within 24 hours of emergency department visit (T)?
For obese adolescents (P), does a school-based nutrition and exercise program (I) versus standard health education (C) affect BMI (O) over a 6-month period (T)?
In neonates with jaundice (P), how does home phototherapy (I) compared to hospital-based phototherapy (C) affect bilirubin levels (O) within the first week of treatment (T)?
For children with type 1 diabetes (P), does continuous glucose monitoring (I) versus traditional finger-stick monitoring (C) improve HbA1c levels (O) over a 3-month period (T)?

PICOT Question Examples for Nursing Burnout

In hospital staff nurses (P), how does the implementation of a mindfulness-based stress reduction program (I) compared to no intervention (C) affect burnout scores (O) over a 3-month period (T)?
For new graduate nurses (P), does participation in a structured mentorship program (I) versus standard orientation (C) influence job satisfaction and retention rates (O) after one year of employment (T)?
In intensive care unit nurses (P), how does the introduction of flexible scheduling (I) compared to traditional fixed scheduling (C) affect reported stress levels and work-life balance (O) over a 6-month period (T)?

10 BSN PICOT Question Examples for EBP Capstone Projects

Here are 10 BSN Nursing PICOT questions perfect for your BSN Nursing Capstone Projects

In adult patients with type 2 diabetes (P), does regular exercise (I) compared to standard care (C) result in better glycemic control (O) over a period of 6 months (T)?
In elderly patients with chronic pain (P), does acupuncture (I) compared to pharmacological interventions (C) lead to reduced pain intensity (O) within 4 weeks (T)?
In pregnant women with gestational hypertension (P), does magnesium sulfate administration (I) compared to standard treatment (C) reduce the risk of eclampsia (O) during labor and delivery (T)?
In children with asthma (P), does regular use of inhaled corticosteroids (I) compared to as-needed use (C) result in fewer acute exacerbations (O) within 1 year (T)?
In patients undergoing cardiac surgery (P), does early ambulation (I) compared to bedrest (C) decrease the incidence of postoperative complications (O) within the first week (T)?
In cancer patients receiving chemotherapy (P), does the use of antiemetic drugs (I) compared to placebo (C) prevent nausea and vomiting (O) during treatment (T)?
In older adults with Alzheimer’s disease (P), does cognitive stimulation therapy (I) compared to usual care (C) improve cognitive function (O) over a period of 3 months (T)?
In postpartum women with breastfeeding difficulties (P), does the use of nipple shields (I) compared to latch techniques alone (C) increase exclusive breastfeeding rates (O) within 2 weeks (T)?
In critically ill patients on mechanical ventilation (P), does daily oral care with chlorhexidine (I) compared to saline solution (C) reduce the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia (O) within 30 days (T)?
In patients with chronic kidney disease (P), does dietary restriction of phosphorus (I) compared to unrestricted intake (C) slow the progression of renal dysfunction (O) over a period of 6 months (T)?

Frequently Asked Questions about NURSING PICOT Question Ideas

1. What is a PICOT question in nursing research?

A PICOT question is a specific type of clinical research question that is structured to guide the search for evidence and the development of appropriate interventions. PICOT stands for Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, and Timeframe.

2. How can I develop a research question using the PICOT framework?

Start by identifying the Population you are interested in, the Intervention or treatment being considered, the Comparison, Outcome you hope to achieve, and the Timeframe within which you expect to see results.

3. Why is formulating a PICOT question important in evidence-based practice?

Formulating a clear PICOT question is crucial in evidence-based practice as it helps focus the search for relevant evidence, guides the decision-making process, and ensures that interventions are based on best available evidence.

4. Can a PICOT question help in diagnosing patients?

While a PICOT question is primarily used to guide research and evidence-based practice, it can indirectly contribute to improved diagnoses by promoting the use of appropriate interventions and treatments supported by evidence.

5. What are some examples of PICOT questions in nursing research?

Examples of PICOT questions could include inquiries about the effectiveness of specific nursing interventions for managing hypertension in cancer patients, or the impact of blood pressure monitoring on patient care outcomes.

6. How can nursing students effectively use the PICOT framework in their studies?

Nursing students can use the PICOT framework to develop focused research questions related to nursing practice, identify gaps in knowledge, and integrate evidence-based approaches into their academic and clinical work.

7. Where can I find resources to help me formulate a PICOT question?

You can explore libguides or research guides provided by

University Libraries: Many university libraries offer specialized LibGuides or research guides for nursing research. These guides often include sections on developing PICOT questions.
PubMed Health: This resource provides tutorials and examples on formulating clinical questions, including the PICOT format.
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI): They offer resources on evidence-based practice that can guide you in developing PICOT questions.
Nursing journals: Journals like “Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing” or “Journal of Advanced Nursing” often publish articles on research methodology, including PICOT question development.
Evidence-Based Nursing textbooks: Books like “Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing & Healthcare” by Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt often have sections dedicated to formulating clinical questions.
Online nursing research courses: Platforms like Coursera or edX sometimes offer courses on nursing research that cover PICOT question development.
Professional nursing organizations: Websites like the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) or Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing often provide research resources.
Research methodology workshops: Many universities and nursing conferences offer workshops on research methodology, including PICOT question formulation.

Sources

EBSCO Health, “7 Steps to The Perfect Pico Search”
University of Oxford, “Asking Focused Questions”

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